root canal treatment – this may be needed to remove tooth decay that's spread to the centre of the tooth where the blood and nerves are (the pulp)

removing all or part of the tooth – this is usually advised when the tooth is badly damaged and cannot be restored; your dentist may be able to replace the tooth with a partial denture, bridge or implant

Cost of NHS treatment

NHS charges are set by the government and are standard for all NHS patients. Charges are assessed each year and usually change every April.

Some people do not have to pay for dental treatment, including children, pregnant women and new mothers.

The cost of private dental treatment varies between practices, as there's no set charge.

If you choose to see a private dentist, make sure to agree the cost before having treatment.

Preventing tooth decay in adults

Although tooth decay is a common problem, it's often entirely preventable.

The best way to avoid tooth decay and keep your gums as healthy as possible is to:

visit your dentist regularly – your dentist will decide how often they need to see you based on the condition of your mouth, teeth and gums

cut down on sugary and starchy food and drinks, particularly between meals or within an hour of going to bed – some medicines can also contain sugar, so it's best to look for sugar-free alternatives where possible

look after your teeth and gums – brush your teeth properly with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day, and use floss and an interdental brush at least once a day

see your dentist or a GP if you have a persistently dry mouth – this may be caused by certain medicines, treatments or medical conditions